Ischemic heart disease and work stress in West German sea pilots

A mortality study of sea pilots operating in the Federal Republic of Germany was undertaken following a similar study in Britain. An excess mortality from cardiac disease in this occupational group compared with the male population of Hamburg was noted--a finding similar to the previous British study. This excess is most noticeable in the 31 to 50 year old group in which the pilots experienced 22 cardiac deaths while only four would have been expected, based on Hamburgs males mortality experience. Furthermore, in the decade 1950-59, the pilots experienced 30 cardiac deaths compared to an expected ten. Present estimates suggest that the pilots' mortality is now similar to the general population rate. Although this excess cardiac mortality is probably related to established coronary artery disease risk factors, occupational stress may also be involved. There was a statistically significant rise in catecholamines during three pilotage operations for each of five volunteer pilots (p less than 0.01). A detailed work load study is required to clarify the role of stress and close occupational surveillance of pilots is needed.